Bauchi Government Approves ₦32,000 Minimum Pension for Retirees
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| Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed |
Bauchi State approves ₦32,000 minimum pension for retirees, raising it from ₦12,000. Learn why this historic increment matters for pensioners in Nigeria.
Bauchi State Implements ₦32,000 Minimum Pension for Retired Workers
The Bauchi State Government has officially approved ₦32,000 as the new minimum pension for all retirees in the state civil service. This landmark decision represents a significant leap from the previous ₦12,000 pension, providing relief for senior citizens grappling with Nigeria’s rising cost of living.
The announcement was made by the Head of Civil Service, Barrister Mohammed Sani Umar, after the State Executive Council meeting. He explained that the increment aligns with the federal government’s approval of the new minimum wage, which also necessitates an adjustment in pensions.
Why the Increment Matters for Retirees
According to Barrister Umar, the council’s approval is not just a policy change—it is a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of its pensioners. He emphasized:
- The pension increment was long overdue, as the last review occurred several years ago.
- Pension reviews must align with the National Minimum Wage Act, ensuring equity across board.
- The increase is in line with federal government directives, which mandate state participation.
This development now places Bauchi among the very few states in Nigeria—reportedly not more than four—that have approved and implemented a ₦32,000 minimum pension for their retirees.
Breakdown of the Pension Increment
The move reflects the following adjustments:
- Old Minimum Pension: ₦12,000
- New Minimum Pension: ₦32,000
- Increase: ₦19,000+ (over 150% increment)
Such an increment significantly improves pensioners’ ability to meet daily needs, particularly as inflation and economic challenges continue to impact household income.
Bauchi’s Commitment to Pensioners’ Welfare
The Head of Service reaffirmed that pension is on the Exclusive Legislative List, which means only the federal government can legislate on it. However, states are expected to adopt and implement pension reviews once approved nationally.
Barrister Umar further noted that before this increment, most states in the federation were still behind in implementing the reviewed pension rates. Bauchi’s move, therefore, sets an example for others.
According to him, this approval underscores Governor Bala Mohammed’s dedication to the welfare of senior citizens, ensuring that retirees who served the state diligently are not left in financial hardship.
Economic Impact of the Pension Increment
This approval is expected to:
- Provide financial relief for thousands of retirees in Bauchi.
- Improve local economic activity as pensioners have more disposable income.
- Set a benchmark for other Nigerian states to follow.
- Strengthen confidence in the current administration’s pro-people policies.
For more updates on state and federal government policies on pensions and wages, you can visit the National Pension Commission and the Central Bank of Nigeria websites.
The Bauchi State Government’s approval of a ₦32,000 minimum pension is a groundbreaking step that prioritizes retirees’ welfare and sets an example for other states. With this increase, pensioners can better cope with the rising cost of living while enjoying the dignity they deserve after years of service.
This move highlights Governor Bala Mohammed’s commitment to social welfare, reinforcing Bauchi State’s position as one of the few states actively working to meet national pension standards.
